Source: CNA
The UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) expressed concern on Wednesday over the health and welfare of a group of asylum seekers stranded in the UN buffer zone, emphasizing the urgent need for access to asylum procedures.
UNFICYP spokesperson Aleem Siddique highlighted the deteriorating conditions faced by the asylum seekers, including many women and children, amid rising summer temperatures. “We are concerned for the health and welfare of the asylum seekers, including many women and children, currently stranded inside the UN buffer zone,” Siddique stated.
Siddique noted that while UNFICYP is collaborating with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to provide immediate humanitarian aid such as food, water, shelter, and medical assistance to the most vulnerable, access to proper asylum procedures under national, EU, and international law is necessary.
The Cyprus government reported on Monday that 27 irregular migrants remain in the buffer zone in the Nicosia district, receiving assistance from UNFICYP. Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis affirmed that the Republic of Cyprus is cooperating with UNFICYP to address the humanitarian needs of these individuals.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974 following Turkey's invasion and occupation of its northern third. Despite numerous rounds of UN-led peace talks, a resolution has yet to be achieved.
